Chief Line Pilot

About the role

The Chief Pilot will serve as a key member of the Pilot Operations department, reporting directly to the Head of Pacific Fleet Aviation (PFA). The core responsibility is the training and management of a department of aerial survey pilots. The successful candidate will promote the safe operation of a fleet of fixed-wing aerial survey aircraft while driving performance efficiency, ensuring operations comply with Federal Aviation Regulations, Part 91 of Title 14 of the Code of Federal Regulations, the Flight Operations Manual (FOM), and any FAA-imposed conditions.

Responsibilities

• Manage daily flight activities, initial and recurrent training, and training records.
• Conduct education seminars to promote safety and continuous improvement.
• Optimize flight time and improve capture efficiencies in collaboration with Pilot Operations staff and the pilot group.
• Conduct and oversee field proficiency checks; cover limited Line Pilot duties as needed.
• Refine and tailor the FOM to PFA and EV operations; work closely with Aviation Safety to address safety concerns.
• Maintain personal proficiency and train pilots on aircraft and camera systems, including troubleshooting techniques.
• Serve as the lead trainer and performance evaluator for all Line Pilots.
• Promote a culture of safety using the SMS and Safety program.
• Participate in daily operations meetings and direct pilot assignments.
• Provide initial training, standardization, and "Train the Trainer" programs for flight instruction, Critical Functional Check Flight (CFCF) IOE, and Turbo training.
• Support departmental improvement initiatives and evolve company policies, operational standards, and safety procedures.
• Develop and enhance pilot training and LMS courses.
• Maintain records of licenses, certificates, ratings, training, and qualifications for all line pilots.
• Conduct and supervise proficiency checks of line pilots.
• Coach and develop airmanship, professional standards, and aeronautical decision-making skills.
• Define and implement measures to optimize KPIs for the Pilot Operations department.
• Perform administrative tasks related to line pilots.
• Work nights, weekends, and after hours as necessary; travel up to 40% of the time (domestic).

Requirements

• Current Commercial Pilot License (CPL).
• Current Certified Flight Instructor (CFI) and Multi-Engine Instructor (MEI) ratings.
• Current Class 1 or 2 Medical.
• Minimum 2,500 hours Total Time.
• Minimum 2,000 hours Pilot in Command (PIC).
• Minimum 500 hours Multi-Engine (PIC).
• Minimum 1,000 hours dual given, with 250 hours in multi-engine dual given.
• Minimum 500 hours cross-country.
• Restricted Radiotelephone Operator Permit.
• Familiarity with Part 91 operating guidelines.
• Ability to pass a drug test and background check.
• Ability to work within the Eastern time zone.
• Valid U.S. passport and driver’s license.
• English proficiency.

Preferred Qualifications

• Current Airline Transport Pilot (ATP) license.
• Current Certified Flight Instructor Instrument (CFII) rating.
• 3,000 hours Total Time.
• 1,000 hours Multi-Engine (PIC).
• Previous Chief Pilot experience.
• Aerial survey or aerial imaging operational experience.
• College degree or equivalent experience.
• Robust leadership and management experience.
• Part 135 experience.
• Mountain flying experience.
• Clear written and verbal communication skills.
• Robust technical skills.
• Experience with aerial survey or photography flying.
• Experience flying Piper Aztec.
• Manual writing experience.
• Remote work environment skills and dedicated workspace.
• Proficient in Microsoft Office suite.

Physical Requirements

• Normal, corrective vision range; ability to see color and distinguish letters, numbers, and symbols.
• Frequently required to sit, stand, walk, talk, hear, bend, and reach.
• Ability to reach with hands and arms.
• Occasionally lift and/or move up to 30 lbs.
• Ability to travel comfortably for long and short distances.

Core Competencies

• Strategic Insight: Connects work to business strategy and impact.
• Executive Presence & Influence: Communicates confidently to influence key stakeholders.
• Constructive Conflict Resolution: Addresses conflict directly and productively.
• Leadership Courage & Candor: Provides honest feedback and addresses issues directly.
• Operational Discipline: Sets clear goals and tracks performance.
• Organizational Navigation: Navigates the organization to advance priorities.
• Team Effectiveness & Cohesion: Builds collaborative, high-performing teams.

Pay

Base salary of $140,000–$160,000 with a bonus potential of 12.5%.